Will I Get Penalty Points for Using Hazard Lights While Driving?
3 Answers
Using hazard lights while driving under inappropriate circumstances constitutes a traffic violation, specifically the improper use of vehicle lights, which carries a penalty of 1 demerit point. The following situations permit the use of hazard lights: Traffic accidents: When involved in a traffic accident and the vehicle cannot be moved to a safe area, it is necessary to activate the hazard lights. Additionally, a warning triangle should be placed behind the vehicle to alert oncoming traffic, followed by calling the police and awaiting assistance. Vehicle breakdown: If the vehicle experiences a special circumstance that renders it immobile and is awaiting assistance, remember to turn on the hazard lights to alert passing vehicles that the car is in an abnormal state. Specially authorized vehicles: Vehicles that have received special permission from the traffic police department are allowed to use hazard lights.
Using hazard lights while driving depends on the situation. If the vehicle has a malfunction or is involved in an accident requiring an emergency stop, turning on the hazard lights is completely legal, and the police won’t deduct points. However, if there’s no valid reason—such as using them during traffic jams or arbitrarily flashing them on the road—that’s not allowed. Traffic regulations state that such misuse is considered an obstruction to other vehicles, as hazard lights are meant to warn of danger, not serve as everyday lighting. If caught, it typically results in a 1-point deduction and a fine of around 100 to 200 yuan. I once heard about a friend who unnecessarily turned on his hazard lights on the highway and was pulled over by traffic police for a warning—after that, he only used them when parked. To avoid trouble, I recommend using hazard lights only in genuinely dangerous situations, not for convenience at the expense of traffic flow. During normal driving, it’s best to stick to turn signals or brake lights as required by regulations.
From my driving experience, using hazard lights without reason can easily lead to penalty points. I remember last year when I was driving out of town, I turned on my hazard lights shortly after exiting the highway, thinking it would be safer, but I was immediately noticed by a nearby traffic officer who warned me that this was a violation. The rules are clear: hazard lights should only be used in cases of vehicle breakdown, accident stops, or poor visibility due to severe weather. Misusing them can mislead other drivers and increase the risk of rear-end collisions. The penalty varies by enforcement—some places deduct 1 point on the spot and impose a fine of over 100 yuan. I’ve seen many beginners unaware of this rule, thinking hazard lights can be used freely, only to suffer the consequences. In short, my habit is to use hazard lights only when absolutely necessary and turn them off otherwise. Developing good habits helps avoid fines and safety issues.
